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As the leaves begin to swirl in hues of gold and crimson, the kitchen beckons with the promise of comfort and warmth. That’s when I discovered the delightful art of baking a German Apple Cake. This recipe has a special place in my heart—crafted with juicy apples and the satisfying crunch of pecans, it perfectly captures autumn’s essence. Layered with a velvety cinnamon cream cheese frosting, it transforms an ordinary gathering into a celebration.

Imagine slicing into this cake, the aroma of cinnamon enveloping your space, teasing your senses. It’s versatile too; whether you choose to make it a stunning tiered centerpiece or opt for the simplicity of a 9×13 pan, the flavor remains undeniably irresistible. Perfect for cozy family dinners or festive occasions, this cake promises a slice of joy in every bite. Join me in welcoming fall with this comforting German classic that’s bound to become a favorite!

Why is German Apple Cake a must-bake?

Comforting and Cozy: This German Apple Cake is the epitome of fall baking, combining warm spices with tender apples to create a nostalgic dessert perfect for any gathering.

Quick to Prepare: With easy-to-follow steps, you’ll have this delightful cake ready to serve in no time, allowing you to enjoy more moments with friends and family.

Versatile Options: Whether you prefer a classic tiered cake or a casual 9×13 pan, this recipe can adapt to your celebration needs.

Flavorful Indulgence: Each slice is a harmonious blend of sweet apples, crunchy pecans, and rich cinnamon cream cheese frosting, making it an instant favorite.

Make Ahead: You can prepare your cake in advance, making it perfect for busy days or unexpected guests. Enjoy it warm or chilled, and don’t forget to pair it with your favorite beverage!

German Apple Cake Ingredients

Unlock the flavors of fall with these delightful components!

For the Cake

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and texture to the cake; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free variant.
Ground Cinnamon – Adds warm spice flavor; consider using freshly grated nutmeg for a different flavor profile.
Baking Soda – Helps the cake rise; essential for achieving a light, fluffy texture.
Kosher Salt – Balances sweetness; sea salt can be used as an alternative to enhance flavor.
Eggs – Provides moisture and helps bind the ingredients together for a cohesive batter.
Sugar – Sweetens the cake and enhances browning; you can decrease it to taste or swap with coconut sugar for added depth.
Canola Oil (or Vegetable Oil) – Keeps the cake moist; using olive oil offers a uniquely rich flavor.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances sweetness and aroma for a delectable finish.
Peeled, Cored, and Chopped Apples – Brings moisture and flavor; Granny Smith apples are ideal for their tartness. Use any firm baking apple to your preference.
Pecans – Adds crunch and nuttiness; walnuts can be substituted for a similar texture.

For the Cinnamon Cream Cheese Frosting

Cream Cheese – Softened for a tangy, decadent frosting base.
Butter – Adds creaminess to the frosting; unsalted is preferred to control sweetness.
Confectioners’ Sugar – Sweetens the frosting; adjust to achieve your desired level of sweetness.
Ground Cinnamon – Elevates the flavor profile of the frosting, tying it beautifully to the cake.
Kosher Salt – Balances sweetness; optional but enhances overall flavor.

How to Make German Apple Cake

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by lining them with parchment paper and spraying with baking spray to ensure easy removal.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, combine all-purpose flour, ground cinnamon, baking soda, and kosher salt. Mix well so that the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together eggs, sugar, canola oil, and vanilla extract until well combined and fluffy. This mixture will make your cake moist and flavorful.
Incorporate Dry Ingredients: Gradually add your dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix. Then, fold in the peeled, cored, and chopped apples along with the pecans.
Bake the Cake: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for about 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cakes should be lightly golden on top.
Cool and Prepare Frosting: Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Meanwhile, prepare the frosting by blending softened cream cheese and butter until smooth, then gradually add confectioners’ sugar, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of kosher salt.
Frost the Cakes: Once the cakes have completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate and frost the top. Add the second layer, then frost the top and sides. Garnish with apple slices and chopped pecans for a beautiful presentation.
Serve: You can serve this delicious German Apple Cake immediately or place it in the refrigerator until you’re ready. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor experience.

Optional: Drizzle with caramel sauce before serving for an extra touch of sweetness!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze German Apple Cake

Fridge: Store your German Apple Cake in an airtight container for up to 5 days to keep it fresh and moist. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap each layer of cake tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator when ready to enjoy.

Frosting: If you have leftover cinnamon cream cheese frosting, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Rewhip before using to restore its creamy texture.

Reheating: To warm individual slices, microwave for about 15-20 seconds. This will revive the comforting flavors of your German Apple Cake, making it just like freshly baked!

Expert Tips for German Apple Cake

Choose the Right Apples: Opt for firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp to maintain texture and enhance flavor in your German Apple Cake.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix the batter until just combined to prevent a dense cake. Overmixing can lead to a tougher, less enjoyable texture.
Cool Completely: Ensure your cakes are completely cool before frosting to prevent the cream cheese frosting from melting and sliding off.
Layering Tip: If making a tiered cake, use a simple syrup to moisten the layers, adding both flavor and keeping them from drying out during baking.
Storage Secrets: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. The flavors will deepen and meld beautifully over time!
Customize Frosting: Feel free to play with the spices in the frosting—add some nutmeg or even a touch of maple syrup for a unique twist on your German Apple Cake!

What to Serve with German Apple Cake?

Fall into the warmth of seasonal flavors with delightful additions that enhance every slice of this cake.

Coffee or Tea: The rich spices in the cake pair beautifully with a steaming cup of coffee or aromatic tea, creating a cozy atmosphere for afternoon treats.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream perfectly balances the cake’s warm spices, adding a refreshing contrast that melts into each bite.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzle some caramel on top for an extra layer of sweetness. It enhances the apple flavors and brings a delightful sticky texture to the experience.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream adds a soft touch to the dense cake, making every slice feel indulgent while complementing its richness.
Candied Pecans: These crunchy, sweet nuts provide a textural contrast and enhance the nuttiness of the cake, making it even more irresistible.
Spiced Cider: Warm, spiced apple cider echoes the flavors of the cake and adds a comforting drink option that’s perfect for chilly evenings.
Fruit Salad: A fresh fruit salad adds a burst of brightness, balancing the rich cake with a refreshing and healthy side.
Pumpkin Pie: For dessert lovers, serving a slice of creamy pumpkin pie next to the German Apple Cake creates a festive dessert table, perfect for autumn gatherings.
Cheese Platter: A selection of sharp cheeses like aged cheddar or brie can provide a savory contrast to the sweet cake, beautifully enriching the flavor experience.

Make Ahead Options

These German Apple Cakes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to streamline their meal planning! You can prepare the cake layers up to 24 hours in advance; simply bake, cool, and store the layers in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. The frosting can also be made ahead of time—just refrigerate it in a separate container. When you’re ready to impress your guests or family, allow the cake layers to come to room temperature before frosting them. This prep not only saves you time but ensures your German Apple Cake is just as delicious when it’s time to serve! Enjoy having a warm, delightful dessert waiting to be dressed up for any occasion.

German Apple Cake Variations

Customize your German Apple Cake to suit your taste and occasion with these delightful variations!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend to accommodate gluten sensitivities while still enjoying a moist cake.
Nut-Free: Opt for sunflower seeds or omit nuts entirely to create a delicious nut-free dessert for those with allergies.
Fruit Fusion: Mix in other fruits such as pears or dried cherries along with the apples for an exciting twist that adds different flavors and textures.
Spiced Up: Add ½ teaspoon of cardamom and nutmeg along with the cinnamon for an aromatic spiced cake that warms your heart.
Caramel Delight: Drizzle caramel sauce between layers and atop the cake for a rich, indulgent experience that complements the apples beautifully.
Cinnamon Roll Style: Swirl cinnamon sugar into the batter before baking for a mesmerizing twist that elevates each slice to new heights of deliciousness.
Vegan: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce, and use a plant-based cream cheese for the frosting, making this cake suitable for vegan diets.
Lemon Zest: Incorporate a tablespoon of lemon zest into the batter for a bright, citrusy flavor that balances the sweetness of the apples.

German Apple Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of apples should I use for German Apple Cake?
Absolutely! I recommend using firm, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp as they hold up well during baking and lend a delightful contrast to the cake’s sweetness. You can also experiment with Braeburn or Jonagold for different flavor profiles, but avoid soft varieties like Red Delicious, as they won’t provide the same textural integrity.

How should I store my German Apple Cake?
To keep your cake fresh and delicious, store it in an airtight container in the fridge, where it can last for up to 5 days. If you’d like to share leftovers, simply let them come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor experience. It’s a great way to prolong that comforting taste a little longer!

Can I freeze the German Apple Cake?
Very much so! If you want to freeze the cake, wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil, and it will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the layers overnight in the fridge. To serve, you can frost it while still slightly chilled or let it warm up to room temperature first.

I don’t have cream cheese for the frosting. Can I use something else?
Of course! If you’re out of cream cheese, Greek yogurt is a wonderful substitute that will give you a tangy flavor and creamy texture. You can also blend cottage cheese until smooth as a lower-fat option. Just remember to adjust the sugar to achieve your desired sweetness!

What should I do if my cake domes in the oven?
If your German Apple Cake rises in the center, don’t worry too much! It happens sometimes. Just allow it to cool completely before frosting, then level the top with a serrated knife for a more even appearance. To prevent this in future bakes, you can try adjusting the oven temperature or baking it with a pan of water in the oven to maintain moisture.

Is there a way to make this German Apple Cake nut-free?
Definitely! Simply omit the pecans from the recipe or replace them with a seed-based alternative like sunflower seeds. You can also enhance flavor by adding additional spices, such as nutmeg or allspice, to make sure it remains delicious and satisfying!